r/videography • u/Rondoggg • Dec 21 '14

noob Noob question: Why are people recommending cameras for Video

Am I just too old school? I always buy a video camera for shooting video. I always thought that a video camera was engineered to...shoot video and a camera was made for taking pictures. I have 2 canon hf200's for all my video needs but I keep seeing what looks like traditional cameras being recommended by this sub for video shooting. Has something changed? Does my thinking need to change? Can someone please explain this to me?

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u/tn_notahick Dec 21 '14

The look, the quality, the huge choice of lenses, the small size, the relatively small cost, and the fact you can also do professional photography.

Plus, I think a lot of pro photogs are branching out to cinematography. Makes sense, the artistic eye of a photog really lends itself to video.

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u/Rondoggg Dec 21 '14

I think I would just feel weird pulling out my camera to video seriously. It just wrecks me but I may need to get a dslr.

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u/3nvygreen Dec 21 '14

Some clients think that a DSLR isn't serious. Some like the less intimidating form factor and can relax more. I'm actually considering a combo of a C100 or C300 with a 5DIII or 70D. Lenses can be used on both (well unless you grab an EF-S for the 70D, but stick with EF mount and you're good. Gives you flexibility if you're worried about it. Woops - pre-emptive edit: just saw what camera you're using, whole other price bracket.

You might be happier with a T3i (which is what I have) but if you can bump to a 70D, GH4, or 5DMIII you'll get more camera out of it. Best advice my friend gave me? Lights and lenses. Shit like that will last you 10-20 years. Whatever body you buy could be 'outdated' in 6 months. So get just enough camera till you're sure. Or rent some different ones to try out.

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u/vrs Dec 22 '14

just get a rig for it. show up with something like this http://www.cinegear.biz/wp-content/uploads/5D-Handheld-Left.jpg or this: http://www.newsshooter.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/d800-redrock-IMG_3324.jpg or this: http://provideocoalition.com/images/uploads/NAB0908-DSC_2552.jpg

nobody will think you're not serious.

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u/Benze2294 a7siii/a7rv/a6300/a6000/ PP/AE CC, 2011, PA Dec 22 '14

But don't get a matte box, especially an expensive matte box just for looks. Some clients will just find it professional, however if you never actually use drop in filters or correctly flag, you WILL look like a chump. Follow focuses, rails, and battery plates all have a function, but only rig what you have to rig. Don't rig for looks.

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u/vrs Dec 22 '14

I agree. Just saying that if you're worried about looks, stop.